The most effective way to fix a sagging cloth car ceiling (headliner) is to re-adhere the fabric using a high-strength headliner adhesive. For small areas, a simple spray adhesive repair might suffice, but a complete headliner replacement offers the most permanent and professional-looking solution. The best method depends heavily on the extent of the damage.
The first step is to assess the damage. Is it a small sagging section or has the entire headliner fabric come detached? For a small bubble or sag, you can often fix it without removing the headliner. Carefully push the fabric back into place and use a syringe to inject a specialized headliner adhesive. Then, use a small roller to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure a firm bond.
For larger areas, the headliner board must be removed from the car. This process involves carefully taking off trim pieces like sun visors, dome lights, and handles. Once the board is out, you'll peel off the old, failed fabric and thoroughly clean the board with a brush and adhesive remover to create a perfect surface. Applying a new layer of headliner fabric is a two-person job. You'll spray both the board and the new fabric with adhesive, let it get tacky, and then carefully lay the fabric down, starting from the center and working outwards to avoid air bubbles. After it dries completely, you reinstall the board and all the trim.
Using the correct adhesive is critical. General-purpose spray adhesives can fail, especially with temperature changes. A high-temperature headliner adhesive is formulated to withstand the heat inside a car and provide a lasting bond. If the headliner board itself is damaged or warped, replacement is the only viable option.
